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PYSER EDELSACK Obituary

EDELSACK--Pyser Sherman. A dedicated and beloved educator, husband, father, uncle and friend, Pyser Edelsack died of lung cancer on May 5 in New York City. In nearly 40 years of teaching he trained more than 1,500 students as Director of Field Education at the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education at City College, which offers talented high school students -- many of whom are low income minorities -- free tuition and a guaranteed place in medical school in return for a promise to practice for at least two years in underserved areas. His involvement with Sophie Davis grew from his service as an Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Field Education Coordinator at the Department of Social Medicine at Montefiore Medical Center. Mr. Edelsack was also a board member and former board chairman of the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. Earlier in his career, he was the principal of The Alternative Learning Space, a middle school for troubled students in the Bronx. As a youth worker for Riverdale Neighborhood House, also in the Bronx, he directed teens in building the first geodesic dome sanctioned by the New York Department of Buildings. Born in Los Angeles in 1943, he graduated from UCLA before joining the Peace Corps, working with farmers and villagers in a remote corner of India. He is predeceased by his sister, Marcia Richman, and survived by his wife, Susan Cole, his son Mack Cole-Edelsack, his nephew Joshua Richman, nieces Heidi Richman and Beth Cole Hale. Funeral will be at Riverside Memorial Chapel on Thursday, May 8. Send donations to Chinatown Health Clinic Foundation or Sophie Davis.

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Published by New York Times on May 6, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for PYSER EDELSACK

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Sue Ann Hoahng

May 11, 2019

We miss you so much. Seems like only yesterday we were at a Knicks game telling and cheering them on. Just want you to know how lucky we were to have had you in our lives

Amy Taylor

December 1, 2014

I was so sorry to hear about Pyser. Since I was so young when I knew him, my memories are vague...but they are all of warmth, humor and kindness. My love to all of you. Amy

Deborah Nagin

October 31, 2014

Yesterday I was at an advisory committee meeting at Mt. Sinai. Being there made me think of my wonderful friend Steve Levin, an amazing person and doctor, who gave so much to make the world better. After that meeting, while walking with my friend and colleague, Maida Galvez, I learned that Peyser had passed away. Similar to Steve, Pyser and I met went back to the formation of New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) Like Steve, Pyser was a giver -- he touched so many lives, especially young people and always tried to make the world a better, more humane place to live. So sorry to hear about Pyser's passing. Best, Deborah Nagin

Peter Muennig

October 30, 2014

I just heard of Pyser's passing at an event for Jack Geiger. We used to ride to work together. He could lap me about 20 times in an hour in the CUNY swimming pool. We still, crossed paths on the bike path all the time after I had moved on to Columbia. I would be zoning out looking out at the water and hear a thundering loud PETER!!! There would be Pyser, immediately asking my opinion about something. You will be dearly missed, my friend.

August 25, 2014

Andy and I were convened when we did not see you at the farm. Then we learned of Pyser's passing. There is very little anyone can say. To Susan and Mack, the Rudko family expresses our sincere condolences.

Bob Diamond

June 16, 2014

Rest Peter

Arielle Elmaleh-Sachs

June 4, 2014

I first met Professor Edelsack when I took HMS 2. A few weeks into the course, Professor Edelsack found out I was volunteering at Planned Parenthood, and he called me into his office, where he hinted that I should e-mail my class to advertise about an upcoming event to support Planned Parenthood. After that, we instantly bonded over our shared political views and interest in public health. Over the past four years, I had countless meetings with Professor Edelsack in his office, to discuss not only coursework, but also traveling, movies, politics, and everything in between. He always asked me questions that kept me thinking of ways I could improve myself, and he gave me a new perspective by which to understand the health care system. I absolutely loved every meeting I had with him, or just passing by him in Harris Hall where he would always check in. Professor Edelsack quickly became my mentor, my friend, and he generously gave me his time.

He had an incredible ability to form friendships with his students and to cultivate them, always following up, and always offering his network of connections to us. He involved me in projects, giving me the opportunity to work with him and to publish with him.

I am so lucky to have had Professor Edelsack as my friend for the last 4 years. He has inspired me and influenced my life for the better, helping me to find my vision and mission in life. He was unwavering in his support and confidence in his students. I hope that I will be able to honor him in the work that I do. I know that the frequent discussions I had with him about everything, and our friendship will guide me towards the right path. I miss him dearly.

Nancy McKay

May 30, 2014

Dear Susan, I will miss Pyser's intelligence warmth and kindness whenever we got togehter. Deepest sympathy and love -

May 24, 2014

Professor Pyser Edelsack was an amazing teacher and mentor to our daughter Arielle. We are certain that his spirit and teachings will be part of Arielle's work and engagement, in her life as a physician and a social activist. Thank you.
Rebecca Elmaleh and Fred Sachs

Adela & De Young

May 21, 2014

Pyser, we will always miss you, remember you, and your hugs and kisses to Elizabeth.
Susan and Mack, our deepest sympathy for your loss.

Marcelo Garrido

May 20, 2014

Dear Susan, was amazing could be able to know both of you, I'll always remember his words.
My deepest sympathies.

lori stevenson

May 19, 2014

Pyser was a wonderful colleague and mentor to me-- his insight and guidance meant the world to me. he will be missed.
Lori Stevenson

charlotte sasso

May 17, 2014

We will always remember Peyser ready to go kayaking, offering computer advice to Dante, talking Knicks & Mets, planning meals, loving & living life to its fullest! Charlotte & Bruce Sasso

Toby Golick

May 11, 2014

Dear Susan and Mack, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Pyser was so much fun to be with, and so committed to ideals of justice. He will be missed.

May 10, 2014

Susan:

Our sincere sympathies over your loss. Our blessings to you and your family, Sincerely,

John and Gail

Niko Kolodny

May 10, 2014

My deepest condolences.

Joyce Gelb

May 9, 2014

Pyser was a ccny colleague who I worked with on several projects. He was smart, fun and a good friend . we lost contact after my retirement but he was a pleasure to know

Pyser helps Emma at farm's tomato taste-off

Jane Weissman

May 9, 2014

Pyser harvesting at Quail Hill Farm

Jane Weissman

May 9, 2014

Hatto & Heidi Dachgruber

May 9, 2014

Edel you were
Always helpful
Always cheerful
Very geistreich
Great sense of humor
We miss you, we miss you very much
Kayaking will not be the same anymore.
Hatto & Heidi Dachgruber
PS: Pyser, I saw a lot of beautiful People at your Memorial Service yesterday.

Ivan Kolodny

May 9, 2014

Susan and Mack,

My deepest sympathies. Pyser will be missed.

V.C.

May 9, 2014

My sincere sympathy to the family for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find peace and comfort in Psalms 65:2. Again my deepest sympathy.

Sue and Shen, Section 302

May 9, 2014

Susan and Mack,
We are going to miss Pyser so much. Who am I going to root for the Knicks with now. Wish I had the chance to tell him how much he meant to us, and to say, "farewell dear friend!"

Christopher Reinish

May 8, 2014

We still need an orientation!
Pyser, you are the best!
Rock! On!

Valerie Eyma, MD

May 8, 2014

Thank you Professor for your dedication to communities without a voice of their own.

Susanne Dachgruber

May 8, 2014

Susan,
During my summer visits to East Hampton, I have always enjoyed seeing you and Pyser. You are both such lovely people and we will miss his beautiful spirit very much. Our hearts are with you and your family.

Suzette Oyeku, MD, MPH

May 8, 2014

Dear Susan and Mack,
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I was one of Pyser's students and his passion for caring for underserved populations was palpable and contagious. I'm so thankful that my life crossed paths with him. He will be deeply missed.

Melinda Tanner

May 8, 2014

Susan, I met Pyser while doing SP work up at Sophie Davis years ago. I knew you at the time, but never put you two together for years! Enjoyed talking about our L.A. roots and sharing memories. He truly lived ahd shared his passions. What a gift! My condolences to you and your family

Melinda Tanner

May 8, 2014

I was lucky enough to meet Pyser at Sophie Davis years ago doing SP work. I didn't make the connection that he was only half of your formidable team for years! We have since shared our L.A. roots and memories of past times. Pyser lived and worked his passion. What a gift! My condolences to you and your family.

Margie Roop

May 8, 2014

Dear Susan,
Pyser was such a force for good in this world and has left behind an amazing legacy. So deeply saddened by his untimely loss. He was a great mentor, teacher and friend. Sending heartfelt condolences and love to you, Mack and your family.

Bruce Harrison

May 8, 2014

Susan; our deepest heartfelt condolences.
Bruce & Danielle Harrison

Ethel Hee and Family

May 8, 2014

To Susan and Mack,
We want to send our deepest condolences to you and your family. Pyser was truly a one of a kind person and we were fortunate enough to have met him. He was so smart, generous and funny.

Mary Lou & Ernie

May 8, 2014

Susan,
We send much love to you and all your family. How fortunate you are to have had Pyser in your lives. Clearly he was smart (he married you after all) and he also brought so much to each person he encountered and to the world we live in.

Vickie Thomas

May 8, 2014

Dear Susan and Mack,
I am so very sorry for the profound loss by Pyser's death. My heart goes out to you. I hope loving memories and loved ones bring you peace.
Condolences to you and your family.

Jane Reinish

May 8, 2014

sosaddened...during my youth in Riverdale I was lucky enough to hang out at The Dome. The early influence of Peyser, and encouragement to think, see, look and question has always propelled me to enjoy a full and rich life. The way he encouraged full expansive and integrity relationship to others and the world helped mold me into the person I am today. His influence for me was vast...I will honor him by using his way as a template for supporting others...

SuJi Shin

May 8, 2014

Susan -
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Although I did not have a chance to know Pyser, seeing you together brought rays of sunshine and joy. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
~SuJi Shin

Donald McLaren

May 8, 2014

Pyser, you were a great educator and influence in my life. The greatest gift that you ever shared with us was your friendship.
--Susan and Mack, I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Renee Shanker

May 8, 2014

I was so shocked and saddened to hear that Pyser is no longer with us. He was such a good friend to me during the 30+ years that I knew him. He was influential in setting me on a career path and he continued to be a wonderful friend and confidante. I already miss Pyser. My condolences to Susan, Mack and everyone else who has been touched by Pyser.

Louis L. Cregler,M.D.

May 8, 2014

Pyser's death is a great personal loss for you..his family, friends and colleagues, but a colossal loss for the community health centers in New York City, City University of New York, City College and the Sophie Davis Program. I treasure our friendship and will miss him.

He was "An untiring passionate advocate for diversity, underepresented students in medicine, and medical underserved communities."

May 8, 2014

Dear Susan,
I am so sorry to hear about Pyser. Although it must be almost 40 years, I have many fond memories of you and him. You and your son are in my thoughts.
Ruth Oscharoff

Baho Sidiqi

May 8, 2014

I will miss his presence in the school as a teacher and advisor. His teaching philosophy was unmatched in making students think on their own. I dont know how to say thank you for all you did and how you carried on with teaching this year. Inspirational. My deepest condolences to the family.

Kyle Hale

May 7, 2014

It's hard to think that my Uncle Pyser has passed. There were plenty of times I remember being with my Uncle that I will never forget. He was funny and made me smile. My Uncle was a great guy and I will never forget him.

Adina Kalet

May 7, 2014

I will miss Pyser very much. He was an inspiring teacher 40 years ago when I first entered Sophie Davis and continued to be a presence in my life providing encouragement, friendship and support in the work of educating excellent physicians to serve the underserved. He touched so many lives and through that work so many others… what a legacy! Condolences to Susan and Mack

Pyser and farm friends. Photo by Jane W.

Jonathan Rose

May 7, 2014

May 7, 2014

Robert Murayama-Greenbaum, MD, MPH

May 7, 2014

The world will miss Pyser's presence.
More than anyone else at Sophie Davis, he identified and cultivated the potential in students, often when they doubted themselves. I know because I was one of those students.
Thank you Pyser for helping me believe what you saw in me.

Chun Yip

May 7, 2014

Pyser, it is my greatest honor to have known and worked with you at Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. Your impeccable enthusiam, wisdom and devotion will forever inspire us to strive for the best for our patients and community.

Susan Dapkins

May 7, 2014

Peyser's impact on his students' lives is borne out in these messages. He was an interested and generous listener, a probing questioner, an exacting teacher and a friend for life. My deep sympathy and condolences go out to Susan, Mack and his dear friends, Rich and Hilary Baum Stein.

May 7, 2014

Has it only been 40 years ago we met and worked at the then Chinatown Health Clinic, now the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. How time has flown and there is no more time to share with you. We will miss you and remember you always.
Susan and Mack, our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Marie and Shau Wai

Ken Chin

May 7, 2014

Dear Susan and Mack:
Lisa and I are so shocked and saddened by this loss to all of us. Pyser spent the past several years advising me and providing valuable tips and pointers – not something that I encounter frequently. I still vividly remember him pedaling up the hill while I had to get off my bike and walk. What a wonderful man! I will miss Pyser dearly.

Joel Evans

May 7, 2014

This is the exact message I told Mack to give Pyser on Sunday..."Thank You for doing so much more for me than words can say". The messages and lessons Pyser had for me in my freshman year have forever stayed with me and still show themselves in my professional life. I feel profoundly blessed to have had Pyser as a teacher and mentor and grateful to have had the opportunity for Mack to relay my thoughts to him on Sunday.

Janice Lloyd

May 7, 2014

Dear Susan and Mack
I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Pyser. Please accept my condolences.
From an old friend

Lourdes Andre

May 7, 2014

I am saddened to learn that Pyser has left this world. He was so dynamic and dedicated to all his causes. I remember when he became an avid bicyclist. He told me he had to do it so he could continue to eat ice cream ;-)
My condolences to Susan and Mack. My thoughts are with you.

Donna Mikolaj

May 7, 2014

We will surely miss you. All our love to Susan and Mack.
Donna and Paul

Jonathan Rose

May 7, 2014

Heartfelt condolences to Susan and family from Jon, Sue and Emma. We will miss him dearly.

Rena Martin

May 7, 2014

I was sorry to hear of the passing of your loved one, Pyser. May the love of God comfort and the peace of God sustain you through the days ahead. all comfort sustain youIt is my prayer that Know that you are in my prayers.

May 7, 2014

Susan and Mack,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend Pyser's memorial. I will be out of town. Please accept my condolences.
Barbara Shelley

Zachary Morgan

May 7, 2014

Dear Susan and Mack,

I am so very sorry to learn of your loss. Pyser was such a sweet man. Take care in this difficult time. You are all in my thoughts.

Zach (Ross)

Robynn & Gerard Scelzo

May 7, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sadness. Pyser will be missed. He was an amazing man. We are honored to have have known him. Robynn & Gerard Scelzo

Serving Others and Promote Change

Ana Delgado

May 7, 2014

I am deeply sorry for the lost. Pyser was always optimistic, energetic with an incomparable faith that every student is responsible for changing the world – his legacy will prevail.

Ayanna Lewis

May 7, 2014

Thank you for all of your tough love, mentorship and guidance. You made it point to touch the lives of others, and boy did you leave your mark. May you rest in peace knowing that you will not soon be forgotten.

Anthony Garro

May 7, 2014

A wonderful colleague who made community health come alive for his students.

May 7, 2014

RIP Professor Edelsack. Thoughts and prayers with your family. Thank you for encouraging your students to think for themselves & for seeing their potential.

Beth Cole-Hale

May 6, 2014

I will dearly miss my fun Uncle Pyser, who had a zest for life and adventure. We shared a love for the beach and ice cream. You will forever be my New York Super Fudge!
Love & Hugs to Aunt Susan & Mack

Katie Hale

May 6, 2014

Best great-uncle ever! I will forever miss you, Uncle Pyser. Love to Aunt Susan and cousin Mack.

Venessa Tan

May 6, 2014

With the honor of being able to call Pyser a teacher, a mentor, and best of all, a friend, my heart, along with countless others is extremely heavy for the loss of a man who epitomized altruism. The world lost a giant, but Pyser's legacy is as strong as ever in his family and his students.
Pedal on, my friend.

Bill Cole

May 6, 2014

I'll never forget Peyser during my years at City College 40 years ago. His devotion and enthusiasm was infectious. We were all figuring it all out then and he was our ring leader! We'll miss you

Julie Martinez

May 6, 2014

What a loss. Professor Edelsack you will be greatly missed. Thanks for all the support. May God bless him and his loved ones

Rick Sperber

May 6, 2014

We worked on the Seton Park Dome together and he changed my life. The man was a selfless giant! Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed!

Bob and Betti Rossano

May 6, 2014

We are mourning the loss of our friend Pyser. We will miss his boundless energy and generous spirit. July 4th will never be the same without him!

Perry Pong

May 6, 2014

Your compassion and your drive to do what's right and help others will live on in all your students and colleagues.

Karen Ruel

May 6, 2014

Pyser you will be missed. You lent support to a Bronx teen and helped her find her way. Rest in peace.

May 6, 2014

I feel as in some ways I'm just getting to know you cousin Pyser! I had no idea how much you shone in your work world. It has been inspiring to read your students' and colleagues' comments. Charlotte

Dave Sagarin

May 6, 2014

Sorry to learn of Pyser's death. He was a really good guy.

Linda Alvarez

May 6, 2014

Dear Pyser, You were a teacher, a colleague, a friend and confidant. I had the pleasure of not only being your student, but working with you as your assistant last year. You were one of my biggest supporters in one of the most vulnerable times of my life. All I can give is thanks for your guidance and for your wisdom in inspiring me to become a physician dedicated to patient and community oriented care. Although you are no longer with us, your work lives on through myself and all the other Sophie Davis students you've mentored. Thank you for everything. I am sorry I did not reach out to you in the last few weeks but know I see you in every patient I care for. You will be greatly missed my friend.

Linda Alvarez

May 6, 2014

Jamiela McDonnough

May 6, 2014

Professor Edelsack was a rare find. He was one of those educators that see beneath the exterior of the student and know what kind of person they are and the type of doctor they would become. He pushed me to strive for better for myself, for my future patients and for the state of medical care. He is irreplaceable and will surely be missed.

Johnson Ho

May 6, 2014

Pyser Edelsack was one of my most beloved and respected mentors, the man who first introduced me to medicine. You've influenced me greatly and you will be missed.

Len Rubin

May 6, 2014

I was just getting to know Pyser but it took no time at all to see what a special person he was. I will miss his brilliance, his zest for life and his great desire to bring joy to those he cared about.

Richard Birkenhead

May 6, 2014

Sending lots and lots of love to Susan, Mack, Josh, Heidi and all who are feeling this tremendous loss.

Bianca Lucien

May 6, 2014

Thank you so much for supporting me and believing in me throughout all my struggles. I will never forget what you have done for me.

tom martin

May 6, 2014

As you know, Pyser and I were very close- I was known as a PIT.(Pyser in training) at the Dome where I was the construction supervisor.He was a large influence and help to me in some very tough times. I will never forget him. tom marrtin

Adetunbi

May 6, 2014

I'm truly going to miss this man. He touched the lives of so many of us and made us better human beings. I loved being his student and eventually working for him. I am in shock and can't believe he's gone. RIP Professor Edelsack.

Regina Lee

May 6, 2014

Pyser dedicated his life to causes he believed in. We are so fortunate that he chose to align himself with a free clinic in Chinatown 40 years ago. I will remember him with gratitude instead of grief.

osasu asemota

May 6, 2014

Tough.encouraging.impacting. I will never forget what you taught me and many other Sophie davis students. Thank you for your time and legacy.

Arn Kawano

May 6, 2014

Pyser was truly a Mensch. He cared passionately about the health and welfare of Chinatown and all underprivileged communities. Along with his wife Susan, he showed an internationalist concern that will be a lasting inspiration.

Vladimir Barayev

May 6, 2014

Motivating professor, supportive, caring and full of energy. Please accept my condolences to the Edelsack family. His legacy will live on in all of his great works, family and students. Shall be missed dearly.

Gary Pelzman

May 6, 2014

An amazing man with great accomplishments- I can only hope that Karma will greet him with open arms, as he certainly led a selfless life and gave far more that he received. I'm grateful that our lives touched...

Annabel Santana

May 6, 2014

A dedicated colleague, Pyser leaves a great legacy at Sophie Davis. Thankful for the 15 years we worked together. He will be greatly missed. My sincerest condolences to Susan and Mack.

Alice Yau

May 6, 2014

RIP Professor Edelsack. It was an honor to have been under his instruction. He will be missed. Our prayers are with his family.

roger hoffman

May 6, 2014

my time at the dome and knowing peyser changed and shaped my life in ways too numerous to detail---a great man and light have passed--my thoughts are with his friends and family at this time

Evelyn Litardo

May 6, 2014

I am deeply saddened by Pyser's passing. He was a compassionate man and a devoted professor. I feel so privileged to have met him and to have had him in my life. He was my professor, my boss, my counselor and my friend. I will miss him dearly.

J J

May 6, 2014

To a man who was able to see the potential in a student even when he or she didn't see it in themselves. Thanks for being such an inspiration to be the change you want to see.

Jane Eng

May 6, 2014

Pyser's passing is a tremendous loss to the Chinatown Health Clinic Foundation, the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center and the medical education community. He was an inspirational leader and we will miss him dearly.

Robert Chang

May 6, 2014

Pyser, you were always there to support with insight and humor - and to make a difference every day in the world. I'll miss that cup of coffee with you and remember your strength always.

May 6, 2014

We are sorry to learn of the passing of Pyser, but are grateful for his service to our Country as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Country.

Our Condolences,
The National Peace Corps Association

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